Visita Iglesia: St. Stephen Protomartyr, Ligao

The Parish church of St. Stephen Protomartyr in Ligao is a prominent landmark in the city frequented by pilgrims and tourists.

The city of Ligao traces its history from the 16th century when a small settlement known as Cavasi existed without a ruler or leader. Every resident was peaceful in his endeavor. This trait enabled the settlement to grow and even attracted other natives from nearby settlements. Along with increasing population, ambitious and aggressive leaders emerged causing friction and creating factions endangering the general peace in the settlement. Five divisions were formed led by maginoos (chieftains): Pagkilatan, Maaban, Sanpongan, Makabongay and Hokoman.

Chieftain Hokoman considered himself the supreme leader over the whole settlement. Even then, rivalry and strife persisted and the once peaceful inhabitants lived in constant fear. According to accounts by Father Felix de Huerta, a Spanish Corporal endowed with the ability to settle jurisdictional disputes mediated among the ruling Maginoos. With the approval of the other chieftains, Pagkilatan was chosen the Supreme Chieftain over the entire settlement and peace and tranquility returned to the place.

The town was founded as a barrio of Polangui in 1606, was ceded to Oas in 1665, and finally became an independent municipality in 1666. Since then, the once minor settlement called Cavasi prospered economically, socially and politically.

How to get to Ligao

Ligao City is easily accessible from Legazpi via public transportation. There are vans bound for Ligao at the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal. You can also ride on jeepneys plying the Legazpi to Ligao route. Another option are the buses bound for CamSur.

Map of St. Stephen Protomartyr, Ligao

View St. Stephen Protomartyr, Ligao in a larger map

Text source: NSCB-RD5